Phineus Teen Wizard is the spin-off/prequel for the ongoing Phineus comic book series.  Once again, all art and writing duties are performed by Barry Linck.  The series follows the adventures of a teenage Phineus as he attends Fourier University as a magic major.  Fourier University is a school for studies in the paranormal that exists in a pocket dimension that overlays Pittsburg.  So, think Hogwarts only instead of just boy and girl sorcerers there are also werewolves, fairies, monsters other such creatures from paranormal and magical lore.  

The art style is much more cartoony than the original Phineus saga which fits perfectly with the lighter tone these stories take.  It adds a whimsical feel which goes hand in hand with the tales of a young Phineus who is aiming to juggle friendships, a dating life, D&D games and of course magical spell casting. The lettering is crisp and once again allows the book to act as a love letter to the Archie comics of yesterday.  Fans of those types comics may not usually be drawn to magic. However, they may find this book a welcome introduction.  There is nothing all that sinister in the stories I read.  Mostly it is crazy hijinks that get out of control.  So, it makes for a fun and breezy comic book experience.

I appreciated that Phineus Teen Wizard pulled in a colorful cast of characters.  There’s Phineus’ roommate and friend Howie who is a werewolf that wears a Hawaiian shirt and sandals.  He expresses exactly the kind of tone set by the writing.  Also intriguing is their classmate Vlad a fairy who looks more like a vampire.  A supporting cast like this helps to build a fantastical and interesting world.  

One can’t help of course but make comparisons to Harry Potter and I think this book would appeal to both fans of that series and non-fans alike.  I believe it will appeal to fans because it offers more of the magically whimsical nature, that is at the heart of the Harry Potter series.  But I think non-fans will also be drawn to it because it’s not as intense and intricate, so it feels less intimidating to invest time into.  Teen Wizard is the marriage of Looney Tunes and Harry Potter.  This allows you to enjoy each silly installment with ease.  

For those who like a little more meat on the bones of their comics this may feel a somewhat unsatisfying but personally I like to balance my heavier material with some carefree stuff.  In that way Phineus Teen Wizard delivers.  The stories aren’t going to stay with you much after you have finished them.  But they are a nice way to pass some time and relax your mind.  I found the art and characters entertaining and the world engaging.  For fans of the Phineus series I think this is a welcome addition.  Although the feel of the books is very different it gives a new angle to the character.  So all in all Phineus Teen Wizard may not be groundbreaking but it is an enjoyable comic to add to your stack.

RORSCHACH RATING:

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Victims and Villains is written and produced by Josh "Captain Nostalgia" Burkey. Music by Yuriy Bespalov & Beggars. Phineus is property of Old Dying Kitty Comics . We do not own nor claim any rights.